1 Many long years I sailed o'er life's ocean,
On its waves I was tossed to and fro;
Then my life was a constant commotion,
And for rest I had nowhere to go;
Then I heard a sweet voice gently saying,
"Come to me, all life's tumult will cease;"
Now no more on the waves I am straying,
But I live by the river of peace.
2 Let the great, busy world swing around me,
But no more do I dread its alarms;
For secure, since my Saviour has found me,
I am safe ever more in his arms;
For he came when sin's fetters did blind me,
And he gave to my soul sweet release;
Now the world and its cares are behind me,
For I live by the river of peace.
3 I do not live alone by the river,
For the army of God dwelleth there,
And the Lord God of hosts will deliver
From all foes that my feet would ensnare.
All my trust in the Lord I'm reposing
And I find that my joys here increase;
And I'll live with my Lord, at life's closing,
If I live by the river of peace.
Source: Light in the Valley: a new work of great merit for the Sunday school, revivals, Christian Endeavor, Epworth League, young people's society, and all forward movement along the line of battle... #26